Mental state verbs (MSV) describe processes of cognition, and thereby aren’t “visible.” While we can see someone “running”, we can’t see the internal process of “hoping”. However, understanding and use of MSV is a critical reflection of cognitive development, and is important for discourse development, academic success, social understanding, and conversational competence. We will begin by exploring the term, drawing from the fields of theory of mind, cognition, linguistics, and attachment. The research exploring how students with language and social challenges differ in their understanding and use of mental state verbs will be reviewed. Then we will explore how to develop MSV in the students with whom we work, covering in-session activities and suggestions for teachers and families.
Learning Objectives:
Explain what mental state verbs are and why they are so important.
Demonstrate how to use an animated video to teach mental state verbs.
Prepare an activity that incorporates MSV into work on conversation with a student in their caseload.
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